From Zagorje destinations to winter backdrops, Advent celebrations across Croatia bring a unique holiday atmosphere and a special experience for visitors of all ages. In previous articles, we have already mentioned the Advents in Osijek, Vukovar and Varaždin, as well as Nina’s magical Shhhuma, and this time we are taking you to Zagorje, Delnice and Velika Gorica.
Advent in Krapina
This year’s Advent in Krapina offers an exceptionally rich and diverse program that includes musical concerts, cultural events, workshops, performances and traditional Advent activities. The program began at the end of November with a series of literary and musical evenings and continues throughout December with the lighting of Advent candles, choir concerts, children’s performances, dance programs, as well as sports and humanitarian activities. Particularly noteworthy are the Krapina Honey Fair, numerous concerts in the festival hall and the city library, the ice rink near “Ljudevit Gaj” Elementary School, and the Advent attractions in Matica hrvatska Park.
Advent in Oroslavje
This year’s Advent in Oroslavje is marked by musical, cultural and gastronomic events. The program features performances by well-known artists, including Dražen Zečić, Jakov Jozinović and Hrvatske ruže, while many other performers will further enrich the festive atmosphere. A special charm of the program comes from the traditional Čvarkijada, which brings together lovers of local specialties and creates an authentic atmosphere of socializing, competition, and shared enjoyment of Zagorje cuisine. In addition to music, children will have fun on the ice rink, and Advent stalls will not be lacking.
Advent in Marija Bistrica
This year’s Advent in Marija Bistrica is marked by an exceptionally rich and diverse program lasting more than a month, offering a blend of spirituality, tradition and entertainment for all generations. Visitors can look forward to numerous musical performances, including concerts by Giuliano, Neno Belan and Dalmatino, as well as a big dance party with popular performers. Special emphasis is placed on spiritual content, workshops and Advent customs that preserve the traditions of Bistrica. The Advent season culminates with a unique New Year’s Eve celebration at noon, which has already become a recognizable hallmark of this destination. An additional attraction for visitors is the Marija Bistrica Christmas raffle, in which one lucky winner will take home a new Hyundai Inster.
Advent in Velika Gorica
This year’s Advent in Velika Gorica brings a program dedicated to creativity, togetherness and relaxed pre-holiday socializing. In the warm, intimate atmosphere of December, a series of workshops for adults has been organized, encouraging creativity and the development of new skills. The program includes a variety of themed events, from making Christmas ornaments and aromatherapy products, to eco-workshops and fun pub quizzes, as well as humanitarian activities such as making toys for dogs in the shelter. The full program is listed below:
- Little Elves’ Workshop – 5 December at 6:30 PM
- Winter Home Magic – eco workshop – 10 December at 6:30 PM
- Christmas Pub Quiz – 9 and 16 December at 7:00 PM
- Making Christmas Ornaments from Salt Dough – 11 December at 6:30 PM
- Fragrant Christmas Soaps (by Vitalskin) – 12 December at 6:30 PM
- Walk with Saint Lucy – 12 December at 5:00 PM
- Bath Bombs & Aromatherapy – 15 December at 7:00 PM
- Advent Vision Board – 17 December at 6:00 PM
- Christmas Is for Us Too – making toys for shelter dogs – 22 December at 6:30 PM
13th Delnice Advent Fairy Tale
This year’s Delnice Advent Fairy Tale will take place from 28 to 30 November 2025 and brings a magical weekend filled with music, creativity and family-friendly entertainment. The program begins with a festive opening featuring performances by the music school, a fire show and a concert by the group Insula, while throughout the event visitors can enjoy meeting Mrs. Claus and the elves.
Saturday and Sunday offer a rich program for both children and adults, including carriage rides and pony riding, face painting, creative workshops, a product fair, and performances by school choirs and local music groups. A highlight of the event is the lighting of the first Advent candle, which sets a ceremonial tone for the beginning of the holiday season. In this way, Delnice once again becomes an idyllic Advent stage that combines tradition, warmth and togetherness.
As you choose your ideal Advent destination, the only thing missing for a complete holiday atmosphere is the perfect accommodation — one that smells of pine, where the fire crackles, and time flows a little more slowly. All such holiday homes await you on our Destination Green Croatia!